[kerpal]

What I always wonder is why strive for productivity at all? I see all these self-help blog posts about boosting productivity, getting more out of your day, etc. They all seem to eschew the virtues of productivity in lieu of hedonism. Can't we have both? Or is the problem moderation? If we don't balance productivity with enjoyment and relaxation we oscillate from each extreme. I confess I've been a bit obsessed with self-help books and websites. With that said, when I compare my more productive self to my time-wasting, hedonistic side, I prefer to have a mix of both. Striving for the extreme hacks to maximize time to be more productive seem pointless if you aren't having fun or enjoying yourself. Strive for achievement sure, but also enjoy life.

[your-nanny]

If increasing my productivity doesn't increase my salary, but decreases my happiness, then why indeed?

[RobertRoberts]

This is an interesting idea. (Office Space interview with the "Bobs" comes to mind) Would you say that your experience fits with the idea that many people are more productive because of recognition from their manager/boss is more valuable than money? (within reasonable parameters)

[your-nanny]

F&#k recognition. That whole thing is just a brainhack scam by management types to avoid paying people for the monetary value they produce.

People generally crave social validation, but very few will pay for it. Yet, that is exactly what that proposal entails: reduced salary in exchange for (forced/insincere) validation and recognition by management. The only difference is that the latter is the passive choice.

[RobertRoberts]

The only reason I thought to ask was data presented years ago that said people will only be motivated by money so far... But would you work in a place for lots of money where they treated you poorly?

I generally agree that corporate head-honchoes will bilk anyone they can for every penny they can...

[your-nanny]

I don't disagree.

[tammer]

The key is understanding your own long term and legacy goals. Then you can estimate whether your current productivity will get you there.

If you aren’t clear on what it is you want, you’ll always be caught feeling unsure if you’re doing enough.

[ipython]

That is so true. Much of my anxiety stems from being unsure of my personal wants and not being able to separate other people’s wants from my own.

Well said.

[RobertRoberts]

Being a better husband and father are things I strive to do better at. I'd classify this as an issue of "productivity", (ie, getting things done that benefit them) even if it's something like giving a compliment or being patient.

[Trundle]

For some of us productivity is needed to be able to do the leisure activities we really want. If that's not the case then sure, just skip straight to the leisure.